Japan Sakura Complete Tour 11 days

2019 Japan Sakura Complete Tour 11 daysTravel Dates : Mar.30 to Apr.9,2019
Tour Price : USD 3,798 Based on TWINWhether you're a seasoned traveler or a first time visitor to Japan, we recommend "Sakura tour 11days" itinerary, our most popular tour. This tour gives you a sampling of all that Japan has to offer, from unique locales to "must see" tourist attractions in Tokyo , Kyoto, Hiroshima and Mt.Koya.

Asakusa -Day 2-

Asakusa is a famous sightseeing spot in Tokyo,which is reminiscent of the Edo period.This district has been flourishing as a temple town of Senso-ji, the oldest and the largest temple in Tokyo.
Nakamise street is a nice shopping street which is over 200m long, leading to the Senso-ji Temple.image Asakusa

Kyoto -Day 4-

Kyoto is an city that developed after the establishment of the Heiankyo in 794, and was home to the Emperor for approximately 1,000 years. Parts of its refined culture have been preserved and transmitted intact to the present day and can be experienced in Gion and other entertainment areas.image Kyoto

Mt.Koya
-Day6-

Koyasan is home to an active monastic center founded twelve centuries ago by the priest Kukai (posthumously known as Kobo Daishi) for the study and practice of Esoteric Buddhism. It is the headquarters of the Koyasan sect of Shingon Buddhism, a faith with a wide following throughout Japan.image Mt.Koya

Izumo Taisha Shrine
- Day9 -

Izumo Taisha Shrine is a national treasure. This building is the tallest and one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It was supposedly over 48 metres (157 feet) tall, 1000 years ago. It is dedicated to Ohkuninushi-no-Ohkami, the god of relationships, so people come here to pray for a good relationship. image Izumo Taisha Shrine

Package toursJapan Sakura Complete Tour 11 days

Tour Descriptions

Spring in Japan is flowers of many hues and shapes all of them beautiful, colorful and plentiful. When first experienced by visitors, Japan is often felt to be delicate, quaint, and charming for its similarity to a miniature garden. Let’s welcome spring and enjoy this season of flower viewing with us!!

This tour visit not only urban city (Tokyo and Osaka) and historical area (Kyoto and Nara), but also spiritual area (Mt. Fuji and Mt.Koya) with local speciality food.
We don't miss to visit Izumo Taisha shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines dedicated to Okuninushi-no-mikoto, which is popularly known as the deity of nation building and good marriage.
Main attraction of this tour is visiting 8 World Heritage sites of UNESCO.
Bullet train experience : Tokyo to Kyoto section.

Welcome to Japan! You will be greeted by an English-speaking assistant at the airport.
The assistant will get you in the bus to your hotel.

You can also extend your vacation before / after the tour in Tokyo. Please contact us!

Shinagawa Prince Hotel (WiFi=○) or similar
Shinagawa is the south entrance to Tokyo. The Shinagawa Prince Hotel, which is in front of Shinagawa Station, has good access to Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Tokyo Big Site, and the Tokyo Forum, as well as movie theaters, bowling, The Aqua Park Shinagawa, tennis, golf, swimming pools and other entertainment facilities.

DAY 2

31. Mar, 2019 (Sun)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

NijyubashiAsakusa Sensoji ShrineShibuya crossing

TOKYO

Start approximately am 8:00, Arrival at hotel approximately 18:00.

Today, Cosplayer girl get on the bus with you and spice up the sightseeing!!

The First visit is Imperial Palace. The imperial palace is located on the former site of Edo Castle, a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the center of Tokyo. It is the residence of the present Emperor and Empress. We stop at Nijubashi-mae to take photo. That bridge is called Eyeglass bridge for its looks.

We visit to Sakura Festival in Ueno park, which is famous for its cherry blossoms. You may watch cherry blossoms in full bloom. Many japanese people enjoy eating, drinking, and singing under the cherry blossoms in full bloom. We will say "HANAMI" in japanese. Hanami is one of the most traditional festivals, but it’s celebrated as enthusiastically today as ever. Hanami means ‘flower viewing’, but in practice it usually refers to picnicking in the vicinity of Sakura (cherry blossoms). You can see lots of cherry blossoms and Hanami people in the park.

We head out to Asakusa. Asakusa is a famous sightseeing spot in Tokyo, which is reminiscent of the Edo period. This district has been flourishing as a temple town of Senso-ji, the oldest and the largest temple in Tokyo. Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate,” the outer gate of the temple is very famous as a landmark of Asakusa for its huge red lantern. Nakamise street is a nice shopping street which is over 200m long, leading to the Senso-ji Temple, the best place to buy traditional Japanese souvenirs in Tokyo.

Located directly across from Harajuku station, Takeshita Street is very popular with young teenagers, particularly those visiting Tokyo on school trips, or local young people shopping for small "Kawaii" goods at weekends. Takeshita Street is a pedestrian-only street in Harajuku with a lively atmosphere.

Of course we'll pass The Shibuya Crossing, where is one of the world's busiest crossings. It doesn't matter what time of the day it is, there is always a crowd. It's actually pretty daunting to see such a large amount of people walking towards you, but Japan has an efficient pedestrian crossing system.

We return hotel.

Shinagawa Prince Hotel (WiFi=○) or similar
Shinagawa is the south entrance to Tokyo. The Shinagawa Prince Hotel, which is in front of Shinagawa Station, has good access to Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Tokyo Big Site, and the Tokyo Forum, as well as movie theaters, bowling, The Aqua Park Shinagawa, tennis, golf, swimming pools and other entertainment facilities.

DAY 3

01.Apr,2019 (Mon)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

Ice CaveHoutouLake Ashi

TOKYO-HAKONE-Mt.FUJI AREA-TOKYO

Start approximately am 8:00, Arrival at hotel approximately 18:00

Today one day excursion to Mt.Fuji area. Mt,Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan. It is 3776 meters above sea level. Mt. Fuji is considered to be the symbol of Japanese beauty. In June of 2013, Mt. Fuji was registered as a World Heritage site. There are several lakes around Mt. Fuji. Lake Yamanaka, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Saiko, Lake Motosu and Lake Shoji. These lakes are often known as the "Fuji Five Lakes". The first visit of Mt.Fuji area is Narusawa ice cave, which is very unique natural caves made by volcanic action of Mt. Fuji. The temperatures of this cave is stable around 0-3 degrees of Celsius through the year and natural ice is not melted even in hottest summer season. Inside of Narusawa cave is very narrow and you need bend down for walking through, ice pillar inside is said became smaller because of global warming but still permanent ice.
Afterward we will stop at Lake Kawaguchi for photo. Lake Kawaguchi, situated in Yamanashi prefecture, west of Tokyo, is one of the best spots for viewing of the majestic Mt. Fuji. Weather permitting, we will enjoy the beautiful scenery lake with Mt.Fuji.

Our lunch today is Houtou, which is Yamanashi's delicious local noodle. Houtou is originaly the name of the thick and flat noodle made from wheat. It is cooked in miso: soy bean paste, based soup with lots of vegetables in season, such as pumpkins, carrots. radishes and mushrooms.

Then proceed to Hakone where is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations with easy access from Tokyo, attracting tourists seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can also enjoy the magnificent beauty of nature including breathtaking views of nearby Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashi. We take a cruise and ropeway to see the splendid scenery from an observatory deck, Mt.Fuji, Gulf of Sagami and Lake Ashi....

After having enjoyed scenery, we return to Tokyo.

Shinagawa Prince Hotel (WiFi=○) or similar
Shinagawa is the south entrance to Tokyo. The Shinagawa Prince Hotel, which is in front of Shinagawa Station, has good access to Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Tokyo Big Site, and the Tokyo Forum, as well as movie theaters, bowling, The Aqua Park Shinagawa, tennis, golf, swimming pools and other entertainment facilities.

DAY 4

02.Apr,2019 (Tue)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

Bullet trainFushimi Inari ShrineTodaiji temple

TOKYO-KYOTO-OSAKA

Start approximately am 8:00, Arrival at hotel approximately 18:00

Today we start the day to get on Bullet train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto.
The Shinkansen, a bullet train, began operations on October 1st 1964, nine days before the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics. The Tokaido Shinkansen connects three major metropolitan areas in Japan: Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka. Now Tokaido Shinakansen's maximum speed on scheduled journeys is 280 km per hour. The unique streamlined form of the Shinkansen aims to enhance the function by minimizing noise among other things.

We will continue our program. The First visit in Kyoto is Fushimi Inari Taisya which is the head shrine of about 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, with a compound of 870,000 square meters. This shrine is renowned especially for its stone fox statues in pairs as well as thousands of closelyspaced vermillion torii gates lined up along the pathway to Mt. Inari, each of which bear the name of its donor.

We proceed to Sake brewery*. The development of Fushimi as a sake production site began around four centuries ago, when Fushimi Port was developed as part of the construction work for Fushimi Castle. The guide gives you a little tour inside the brewery followed by tasting.
*Sake tasting is not available for visitors who will be driving or riding a vehicle, minors, and pregnant or nursing women.

Then we head to Nara. In Nara, we visit to Todaiji temple and Nara deer park. Todaiji Temple is one of Japan’s most famous Buddhist temples and a World Heritage site listed as “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.” This venerable temple was originally built as the headquarters of all the Kegon sect Buddhist temples by Emperor Shomu in 728. Its Great Buddha Hall, which is one of the world’s largest wooden buildings, houses one of the world’s largest bronze statues of Buddha.

Nara park is the one of the most popular sightseeing spots for travelers in Nara. It is very famous for deer. You are going to see freely walking deer around the park. You can feed the cracker called “Shika senbei” to deer in Nara park if you want to try. It was sold in the park. Some deer will bow to you to get the cracker!

Then we head to Osaka. Osaka is the second-largest commercial center in Japan.

Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka(WiFi=○) or similar
It is located in central Osaka and there are various kinds of restaurants due to the city is called "City of Food".

DAY 5

03.Apr,2019 (Wed)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

Kiyomizu templeTea ceremonyDotomboriKushikatsu

OSAKA-KYOTO-OSAKA

Start approximately am 8:00, Arrival at hotel approximately 19:30

We start the day to visit at Kiyomizudera temple**, which is known for "stage of the Kiyomizu", is listed as one of the 17 World Cultural Heritage sites in Kyoto. The main hall of a Buddhist temple commands a view of the whole Kyoto city. The main hall constructed over a cliff and featuring a large wooden veranda supported by 139 pillars, each 49 feet high. It is well known to the Japanese that the idiom "jumping from the veranda of Kiyomizu Temple" means that they're about to undertake some particularly bold or daring adventure.

**We just want to send out an announcement regarding the Kiyomizu Temple which you will be visiting while you are in Kyoto. The temple is scheduled to go under renovation for it's roof starting in 2016. The renovations itself require to cover the temple, of which work has already begun. The renovations are scheduled to be completed in March 2020.
Please be aware that when visiting the temple, it will take some time to get there as demand to see the temple before it is covered will be extremely high. We ask that you understand that the temple will already be partially covered, therefore it may not look like what you expected.

After Kiyomizu temple, we will take you tea ceremony experience. The Japanese tea ceremony is called Chanoyu, Sado or simply Ocha in Japanese. You can discover a new aspect of Japanese culture by experiencing the Japanese tea ceremony!

Then we go to Kinkaku-ji which is known as the Golden Pavilion. It was built on the compound of the Rokuon-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple, which is designated as one of the 17 World Cultural Heritage-listed monuments in Kyoto. It is a three-story building in the garden complex unique to the Muromachi period, with its top two stories covered with pure gold leaf.

We return to Osaka. Osaka is very famous for its delicious cuisine and unique street food culture, so there’s that aspect for visitors and tourists. Kuidaore is also commonly associated with Dotonbori, which runs along the canal from Dotonboribashi Bridge to Nipponbashi Bridge in the Namba district of the city’s central ward. Before we back to hotel, we visit Dotonbori area. This area used to be a theatre district a long time ago, but it’ s now a popular entertainment and nightlife area characterised by big illuminated signboards and many, many food businesses.

There is the place where I want to take you by all means before leaving Japan as your dinner tonight.Kushikatsu is a skewer dish with bite-sized meats and vegetables on the skewer breaded with flour, eggs and bread crumbs, which is deep-fried. We have to follow the rules to allow everyone to enjoy meal comfortably. Dip a skewer in the sauce first. If you would like to put some more sauce on a partly eaten skewer, scoop the sauce with a piece of cabbage and pour it on the skewer. Please do not dip the skewer or cabbage you have been eating in the sauce. Please do not dip chopsticks in the sauce. Enjoy local meal of Osaka!

Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka(WiFi=○) or similar
It is located in central Osaka and there are various kinds of restaurants due to the city is called "City of Food".

DAY 6

04.Apr,2019 (Thu)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

Osaka castleOkunoinGreat pagodaShojin Ryori

OSAKA-Mt.KOYA

Start approximately am 8:30, Arrival at hotel approximately 17:00

Before leaving Osaka, we will stop by Osaka castle. Osaka Castle is a symbol of Osaka, which boasts the five-layered, eight-story donjon modeled after Azuchi Castle. The existing donjon, restored in 1931, has an observatory that commands a breath-taking panorama of Osaka City. There are many cherry trees around a castle which is known as a place famous for cherry blossoms.

After leaving Osaka, our schedule will continue to Mt.Koya. Mt.Koya is a center of Buddhist study and practice, located in Wakayama Prefecture at an elevation of about 900m. Mt.Koya was founded about twelve centuries ago by the great Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi Kukai as a center for Shingon Buddhist training. His wish was to establish a monastery deep in the mountains. He wanted it far from worldly distractions where Buddhist monks could practice and pray for peace and the welfare of the people. In july 2004, Mt.Koya was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, and the Cultural Landscapes that Surround Them".The legendary monk Kobo Daishi Kukai is one of the most historical religious figures. The first visit of Mt.Koya is Okunoin where is a cemetery and sacred area that extends about 2 km from the Ichinohashi bridge to Kobo Daishi's mausoleum. The path is lined on both sides by hundreds of centuries old towering cedar trees.

We can’t miss Danjo Garan Complex . Konpon Daito(Great Pagoda) is planned by Kobo Daishi,as a center of his monastic camplex.Canstruction began in 816, and was nearly completed some seventy years later.The design is a three-dimensional expression of the mandalas of Shingon Buddhism.Images of the eight patriaechs of Shingon Buddhism are also painted in the corners of the structure.

We also visit Kongobuji(Head Temple of Mt.Koya Shingon Buddhism). Originally the entire area of Mt.Koya was known as Kongobuji, and there was no specific building by that name. The building now called Kongobuji was combined in 1869 from two existing temples. The temple contains beautiful screen paintings and Japan's largest rock garden, the Banryutei.

We stay in Shukubo (Temple lodgings). Temple lodgings offer an excellent chance to get a taste of the simple, traditional lifestyle of Buddhist monks and dinner is Shojin-ryori. Shojin Ryori was originally a special kind of vegetarian dish for Buddhist monks. It contains neither fish nor meat.

After dinner we prepare night walking tour of Okunoin with monks. Monks who have license to guide in English take you an enjoyable tour. We had already visited to there daytime, but night tour will become a pleasant memory. Monk talk about history of Mt.Koya, daily life of monks, If we are lucky, we can see some flying squirrels, big frogs and fireflies.
*Rainy weather may cause the tours to be cancelled.

Shukubo Ekoin (WiFi=○) or similar
Please enjoy experiencing Shojin Ryori (vegetarian meal made by Buddhist monks). Only public bath.

DAY 7

05.Apr,2019 (Fri)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

Nankai FerryUdon

Mt. KOYA-TOKUSHIMA-TAKAMATSU

Start approximately am 8:30, Arrival at hotel approximately 19:30

Leaving Mt.Koya, we proceed to Wakayama port to across the sea with 2 hours ferry ride to Shikoku island. Shikoku is the smallest and least populous of the four main islands of Japan, located south of Honsyu and east of the island of Kyusyu. Shikoku means four provinces that made up the four prefectures are Ehime, Kagawa, Kochi, Tokushima. After arriving Tokushima port, our tour continues to Takamatsu after lunch.

At Kagawa, we visit to Ritsurin Koen (park), one of the best Japanese garden in Takamatsu. It takes your breath away with picturesque scene of ponds, small bridges and tea house.

Kagawa Prefecture is famous for its noodles, which are called Sanuki udon. In fact, Kagawa prefecture is informally known as the Udon prefecture because there are so many noodle restaurants there and because of sanuki udon! That's why our dinner tonight needless to say, let's enjoy to try udon!

JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu (WiFi=○) or similar
1-minute walk from JR Takamatsu Station. A city hotel with 300 guest rooms overlooking the streets of Takamatsu and with a beautiful view of islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Located in the center of a transportation network, with great access for sightseeing and business.

DAY 8

06.Apr,2019 (Sat)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

Itsukushima Shinto ShrineA-bomb Dome

TAKAMATSU-MIYAJIMA-HIROSHIMA

Start approximately am 8:30, Arrival at hotel approximately 20:00

We proceed to Hiroshima, about 3hours drive to get there.
The first visit is Miyajima, which is known as one of the three most beautiful scenic spots in Japan. We take a boat from the main island to a small sacred island, on whose beach stands the vermillion color Torii gate. The gate and main hall of the shrine look floating in the water when the tide is high. Itsukushima Shinto shrine is built out over the sea, and the gods of the sea are the object of worship. They could only build it there because the island itself had been considered sacred since ancient times, and even priests were not allowed to live on the island from the 7th century, when it was built, until the Meiji period. Worshippers in the Edo period had to visit the shrine by boat through the torii gate built in the sea.

I see the sights of the Hiroshima city in the afternoon. Japan is the only country which has suffered A-bomb disaster. The first A-bomb was dropped on Hiroshima at 8:15 on August 6, 1945. It would be precious experience to visit Peace Memorial Park and Museum as well as A-bomb Dome that is designated as World Heritage of UNESCO. Although you don’t see the aftermath of the disaster in Hiroshima today, the museum tells you all about what happened.

Also Tonight, we prepare local food, Hiroshima is famous for Okonomiyaki. Okonomiyaki is a Japanese-style pancake made from egg, flour and water with lots of toppings.Okonomi-yaki is a Japanese savory pancake containing a variety of ingredients. The name is derived from the word okonomi, meaning "how you like" or "what you like", and yaki meaning "grill". Served with a specially made thick sauce.

Grand Prince Hiroshima (WiFi=○) or similar
This hotel is located in Moto-Ujina Park on Hiroshima Bay, surrounded by Setonaikai National Park. It is ideally located, being 15 minutes away by car from the center of Hiroshima.

DAY 9

07.Apr,2019 (Sun)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

Iwami silver mineIzumo Taisha Shrine

HIROSHIMA-IWAMI-IZUMO-MATSUE

Start approximately am 8:30, Arrival at hotel approximately 20:00

We start today to proceed to Iwami Ginzan (silver mine) which is designated as World Heritage site of UNESCO. The mine produced almost 1/3 of silver in the world between 16th and the mid 19th century. We visit Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center, where exhibit the history of Iwami Ginzan and its mining technology, exerted significant worldwide influence. Afterward we also visit in the mine. There are more than 600 tunnels to mine silver ore stone in the Iwami area. We walk into the one of them. The tunnel is cool in the midsummer and it is dark and narrow, which is remained that it was dug with a chisel at that time. You can imagine it when it would be very severe work.

*Please be advised;
・Due to weather forecasts, umbrellas and raincoats should be with you at all times.
・Due to the hiking course, appropriate inclosed shoes and long pants should be warn at all times.
・There are cases in which cancellations are made due to rain, strong wind and fog.
・It takes around 2 hours for walking tour.

After walking, we proceed to Izumo Taisha (shrine) in Izumo. Its origine is unknown, however, it has such a long time history since ancient time. Because it is said that the shrine enshrines god of marriage , so many people visit this shrine to pray for their marriage. The stories about the god are described in ancient document called "Kojiki (Record of Ancient Matters)" . You may fell atmosphere of ancient myth of Japan.
One of the highlight of Izumo taisha is Huge Shimenawa (twist straw ropes) hang over the entry to the main buildings. Those who can toss and lodge a coin in them are said to be blessed with good fortune. Please do try that out.

We stay at Matsue tonight.

Matsue Excel Hotel Tokyu (WiFi=○) or similar
Located only 3 minutes walk from Matsue station of JR-line. They provide simple guest room with modern facilities All the guest rooms have wireless and wired high-speed Internet connections. All rooms are completely non-smoking.

DAY 10

08.Apr,2019 (Mon)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = =Not include =Include

Adachi museum of artHimeji castle

MATSUE-HIMEJI-OSAKA

Start approximately am 8:30, Arrival at hotel approximately 18:30

First visit today is Adachi Museum of art that has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award for the sixth consecutive year. The accolade, which honors excellence in hospitality, is given to accommodations and attractions worldwide that have consistently achieved outstanding traveler reviews on the “world’s largest travel site” TripAdvisor. The collection includes over 100 paintings by Yokoyama Taikan and a good selection of works by other major 20th-century Japanese painters. The highlight of this museum are not only pictures but also garden. The founder Adachi Zenko, with the belief of “the garden is also a picture”, devoted himself to gardening until he died at the age of 91. The six gardens, including the Dry Landscape Garden, are about 165,000 square meters in total. They show various seasonal faces, and have good balance with the surrounding natural mountains. Thus, Adachi’s gardens are said to be a “living Japanese painting.”

We drive to Himeji by chartered coach – 3 hours to Himeji -

At Himeji we visit Himeji castle, which is known as White Heron Castle because of its brilliant white exterior and supposed resemblance to a bird taking flight. It is the largest and most visited castle in Japan, and it was registered in 1993 as one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country. Along with Matsumoto Castle and Kumamoto Castle, Himeji Castle is considered one of Japan's three premier castles. Many cherry trees are planted inside Himeji Castle. It is a famous place for viewing cherry blossoms and has been chosen as one of Japan’s 100 most famous places for viewing cherry blossoms.

We drive to final destination, Osaka with 2 hours drive.

Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka(WiFi=○) or similar
It is located in central Osaka and there are various kinds of restaurants due to the city is called "City of Food".

DAY 11

09.Apr,2019 (Tue)

MEAL : Breakfast = , Lunch = , Dinner = = Not include = Include

Airport

OSAKA-KANSAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Time to get back home with unforgettable memory and lots of souvenir. Leaveing for Kansai International Airport by Airport limousine bus. Return by air. Thank you very much for coming to Japan and Sayonara.

Over View

Information

Extend Plan

You can also extend your vacation before / after the tour in Tokyo, Osaka. We can provide extension stay in the same hotel which as a tour uses for 15,000 yen~ per night, per person. Please contact us!

Child Rate※

Please note that children age 4-11 participant are half price when sharing a bed with their parents or guardians.
Children age 3 and under participant are free of charge.

PLEASE NOTE

All prices are per person, based on double or triple occupancy.
International flights are not included on our tours - this allows you the flexibility to choose your own departure and get the best value for your money!

TOUR COST INCLUDES

9 nights Western style and 1 night at Shukubo (guest house of temple in Koyasan) accommodation
Meet and greet upon arrival at Narita Airport
Airport transfers on arrival and departure
Private coach transfers between destinations in Japan
Comprehensive escorted with our licensed professional English speaking tour guide
Meals described as in the itinerary
Admission fees and activities
Entry fees to sites, gardens, and museums listed in the itinerary

TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE

International Airfares
Meals that are not included in the itinerary
Travel Insurance
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Personal expenses such as telephone and laundry bills
Gratuities

ADDITION INFORMATION

Transport : Travel by air conditioned, private coach, baggage handling free
Arrival/Departure Airports : For arrivals at Narita Airport (NRT), this tour starts in Tokyo and ends in Osaka, with departures at Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX)
Meal Requests : Vegetarian, halal or special meals can be arranged
Meet and Greet : Please note that the meet and greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY availableii on the first day of the tour after 10:00 AM. If you plan to stay extra nights before the start of the tour, please arrange your own hotel transfer Tour schedule and prices subject to change without notice

Day 9 IWAMI / IZUMO / MATUE

Day 10 MATUE / HIMEJI / OSAKA

Customer Reviews

Great experiences in every day

The best place you visited in this tour?: Ueno park with cosplayer girl with cherry blossoms. Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu temple
What is the best experience you had in Japan? : Japanese culture and some history and foods.
Each sights having its own design.
Thanks to our guide Yayo for excellent help!!
By Van.T - 2018 spring -

The cherry blossom is very beautiful. Arigatou!

The best place you visited in this tour? : Kiyomizu temple, Todaiji Great Buddha, Ueno park
What is the best experience you had in Japan? : Learn about japan history and traditional japan food.
I can see a lot of beautiful views and sights.
It was a good tour and I enjoyed that. The cherry blossom is very beautiful. The tour guide is very good and nice. Thank you very much and Arigatou.
By Mai.N - 2018 Spring -

I would use your company again. I would recomommend your company.

The best place you visited in this tour : Everywhere was very good but Nara Todaiji are Fantastic!
What is the best experience you had in Japan : Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Ashi cruise and Mt.Komagatake ropeway.
Food : I don't et meat but there was always an alternative. Thank you.
Our guide Yayo was super very knowledgable, funny and always smiling excellent guide. The tour was well organized. The bus driver very good and friendly. I would use your company again. I would recomommend your company.
By Linda. M - 2018 spring -

This is the first time I have been to Japan. I am so delighted.

The best place you visited in this tour? : Mt. Fuji and Hakone
What is the best experience you had in Japan? : Akihabara and Todaiji Great Buddha
Sights : There were so many sights to see each day. The variety of site both modern and old, natural and man-made were very good.
Our guide Yayo-san has been awesome. She was always ready to help and was always happy and smiling. She was a great knowledge of history and I would want her as my tour guide for all of Japan!!
By Adam.W - 2018 spring -

Guide report in 2018

Day 1
We start our first day by visiting Tsukiji Fish Market. It is known as the largest fish market in the world, as it has six-time business of NY’s Fulton Market. It deals with 2000 tons and 400 different kind of seafood every day. In the atmosphere of hustle and bustle, venders sell not only fresh fish and other marine products but also fruits and vegetables and meat. Tsukiji Fish Market consisted of two parts, inner market that is a whole seller market and outer market that is an area we can explore. In outer market, you can find many shops offering food samples. It is fun to taste different kind of snacks such as wasabi peanuts, and dried squid. You can also find unusual produce such as fresh wasabi root or white strawberry as Tsukiji not only has seafood market, but also has the third largest produce market in Tokyo. Of course, you can eat fresh sushi, sashimi and other grilled fresh seafood as well. After Tsukiji, we visit Tokyo Skytree. It was built in 2012 as a TV broadcasting tower. It is 634 meter tall (2113 feet) and the observation deck is located 350 meter (1166feet) high. You can even view Mt. Fuji in a clear day. It also houses aquarium, planetarium, and many restaurants and shops. Shopping area called Soramachi, skytown, offers lots of Tokyo souvenirs. Next, we explore nearby Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine. Sensoji Temple’s symbol is a huge red lantern which says Thunder Gate. That is hanged in a main entrance of Nakamise street which consists of 250 meter (833 feet) of Tokyo souvenir shops and local snack shops. It attracts not only foreign tourists, but also Japanese tourists so it is always busy. If you prefer quietness, you can visit a beautiful garden with Koi fish on the side of Sensoji Temple. Today’s lunch is the choice lunch. You get to choose from Ramen noodle, Curry, or Teishoku ( Japanese set menu comes with rice and miso soup). We can walk around Tokyo business section where you can eat lunch with Japanese “salary man” After lunch, we have a surprise. A cosplay girl who wear traditional Hakama, two-piece kimono, is on board with us. You can take pictures and walk with her entire afternoon. We then visit Imperial Palace glass bridge area. Imperial Palace used to be Edo castle, and now home for our Emperor. The palace was destroyed during world war and rebuilt in the original style. However, stone wall is original from 400 years ago. Our current emperor is 125th emperor which marks the longest royal family in the world. Akihabara electric town is our next destination. If you are into electric goods and Anime, this is the place for you. There are also unique café such as maid café where waitress dressed up as maids and treat you as her master, and Gundam café. At the end of the day, we walk around Ueno Park which is a mecca for Hanami, cherry blossom viewing party. In Japan, we can drink alcohol in some park. So everyone bring picnic food or take out food and enjoy outside party viewing beautiful cherry blossom. There are many interesting food venders on a street. It is always fun to try local street food such as Takoyaki, (Octopus ball), Yakisoba, (fried noodle) or Yakitori ( chicken sate ).

Day 2
Today, we say good bye to Tokyo and headed to see Mt. Fuji. After two hour ride by a bus, we arrive Oishi Park which is located by Lake Kawaguchi, one of the five lakes created from volcanic activity of Mt. Fuji. Mt. Fuji is the most loved mountain by Japanese people and is standing border of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefecture. The highest peak is 3776 meters, and still classified as an active volcano although the last eruption was 1707. It was designated as world cultural heritage site in 2013. After lunch, we visit Hakone area. First, we enjoy a boat ride on Lake Ashi. You can enjoy view of beautiful combination of surrounding mountain green and blue water. If you are very lucky, you can even see Mt. Fuji. The lake was formed in the caldera of the last eruption of the Hakone volcano about 3000 years ago. Its perimeter is 21 Km long and the deepest part of the lake is 43meter. It is located 723 meter above sea level. People enjoy boat rides and fishing rainbow trout and black seabass.. After the boat cruise, we get on 1800 meter, 7 minutes ride of Mt. Komagatake Ropeway. It can house 101 passenger at a time. On a clear day, we can view a beautiful panoramic view of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji from a mountain station. You can also take a short hike to Hakone shrine on the mountain top which is 1,327 meter above sea level. Finally, we check into Japanese Hot spring Inn where we spend a night. We are provided with Yukata, cotton kimono for a lounge wear. You can wear Yukata to dinner, to hot spring and to sleep. We have Kaiseki dinner together. Kaiseki dinner includes seasonal and local dishes. Since we stay by Pacific Ocean, there are wide variety of sea food. In Kaiseki dinner, you can find meals prepared in variety ways, such as grilled, steamed, raw, fried, boiled, and marinated. After dinner, some of us try to experience hot spring in a hotel. It is Japanese people’s favorite way to relax and enjoy vacation. Hot spring is believed to offer many health treatments such as for arthritis, female problem and skin problems.

Day 3
Our first adventure today is to ride Shinkansen, known as a bullet train. First Shinkansen was operated one week before Tokyo Olympic in October in 1964. It connected between Tokyo and Osaka. Since then, there is no casualty as it is known for the safety. It has average of only 55 seconds delay. After we experience smooth ride of Shinkansen, we drive into Kyoto, Japanese former capital. Wherever Emperor lives become a capital of Japan. Since current Emperor lives in Tokyo, Tokyo is a capital of Japan. However, Emperors lived in Kyoto for long time, Kyoto was a capital of Japan. Upon arrival in Kyoto, we have delicious Kyoto local cuisine for lunch. Then off to see Kimono Show at Nishijin Textile Center. One of the famous product in Kyoto is Kimono fabric. Basically there are two ways to make Kimono fabric. One is to dye or paint and the other is weaving. Nishijin is area which has been famous for weaving kimono fabric called Nishijin Weaving. Here, we can learn about how to weave kimono fabric. If you are lucky, you can see a demonstration of Nishijin weaving. We also get to see beautiful kimono show and chance to shop variety of kimono fabric related items. Next, we are going to visit Kiyomizu Temple, which was founded in 780. Kiyomizu means pure water, as there is the Otowa waterfall in a property in Kiyomizu temple. Visitors line up to have a taste of this spring water as it is said to make you healthy and brings you a good luck. In 1994, Kiyomizu temple was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage site. Kiyomizu temple is best known for its wooden veranda which is 13 meter (43 feet ) high and was built without using a single nail. Currently, Kiyomizu temple is under renovation, so some of the part of the temple is covered. It is scheduled to be completed in a spring of 2020. Visit to Kiyomizu temple also offer us chance to see and buy local Kyoto souvenirs as there are many shops from sweets and green tea to Kiyomizu pottery on the way to the temple. Then we visit beautiful Kinkakuji, known as Golden Pavilion. It was built as a villa of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, 3rd shogun in 1394. He left a will to change it for Buddhist temple upon his death. However, it was burned down in 1950, and rebuilt in 1955. It is also registered as UNESCO world heritage site in 1994. We finished our Kyoto first day with a walk around Gion District. Gion area is one of five Geiko area in Kyoto where Geiko and Maiko reside. We stroll a narrow pathway lined with traditional building including tea houses. Geiko literally means an artist. They perform Japanese instruments such as shamisen, three stringed instrument, and traditional Japanese dance. They train variety of Japanese traditional arts such as tea ceremony to flower arrangement during a day, and they are called to perform the art and entertain guests in the evening. There are about 190 Geiko and 90 Maiko in Kyoto these days

Day 4
Today, we visit Fushimi Inari Shrine first. This shrine is famouse for having more than a thousand torii gates. Actually it has much more: altogether 10,000 torii gates in the mountain. A torii gate is considered as an entrance to a Shinto shrine. Shinto is Japanese indigenous religion which has no founder, no stature, and no scripture. The reason for having so many torii gate in Fushimi Inari shrine is that these torii gates are donation from business and general public as this shrine is dedicated the god of “business prosterity” as well as “dream come true” Since Fushimi Inari shrine has been voted number 1 destination in Japan from Trip Adviser for past several years, it has been very crowded. Next, we will visit Sake Museum also located in Fushimi area. To make good sake, not only rice but also pure water is necessary. Fushimi is known for clear water so there are several sake brewery in this area. By visiting a Sake Museum, we can learn how sake is made and also have chance to taste sake as well as plum wine. Generally, sake has around 15% alcohol content, and it is drink either hot or cold. After lunch, we will travel to Nara to see Giant Buddha in Todaiji Temple. Nara is considered as an ancient capital of Japan as Emperor had lived here before they reside in Kyoto. Back in 752, Emperor Shomu built the Great Buddha in order to save the people from plague and natural disaster. Todaiji is famous for not only housing the largest Buddha, but also it is the largest wooden structure in the world, even though current one is the reconstruction of 1692 which is only two third of the original structure. The sitting height of Giant Buddha is about 15 meter (50 feet), width of an eye is 1 meter (3.3 feet), a hand is more than 2.5 meter (8.3 feet). The right hand represents “ Do not fear “ and the left hand means “grant people’s wishes” Along with the Giant Buddha, you can also enjoy meeting and feeding tame deers in Nara Deer Park. There are about 1,100 tame deer roaming about the park. Those deers are regarded as divine messengers of the Kasuga Shrine across the street from Todaiji Temple. When you feed deer rice crackers, try saying “bow” while you bow to him at the same time. Then some of the deers bow to you, too. We will finish our day by visiting Dotonbori area in Osaka. Dotonbori is one of the principal tourist destination in Osaka. It is running along the Dotonbori canal from Dotonboribashi bridge to Nihonbashi bridge in the Namba district of Osaka. Historically, it was a theater district and now is a popular nightlife and entertainment area characterized by its eccentric atmosphere and large illuminated or moving signboards. One of the area’s most prominent features, a billboard of confectionery company Gulico displaying the image of a runner crossing a finishing line, is seen as an icon of Osaka within Japan.

Day 5
We say good bye to Osaka and are headed to Himeji Castle. This is one of only ten existing real castles in Japan. Himeji castle was registered as the first UNESCO world heritage site in Japan in 1993. It is also known as the White Heron Castle as it is representative of the beautiful white castle in Japan. Almost all of the castle structure still intact from its original construction in the early 1600’s. The castle has never been attacked in a history. It was even painted in black during the World War II in order to avoid to be targeted of bombing. The castle grounds are divided into inner-and-outer walled zones, with several gates built around maze-like structure to confuse and also irritate enemies, and the triple moats for extra protections. After visiting Himeji castle, we are going to have a lunch at the service area on the high way. In Japan, all the highways are toll, so there are service areas where people can take break from driving. Travelers can use bathroom, enjoy meals or snacks, and also try local souvenir shopping. The last stop for today is a beautiful Adachi Museum of Art in Shimane prefecture. Adachi museum was founded by local businessman and art collector Adachi Zenko when he was 71 years old. Adachi Museum Garden has been ranked as the number 1 garden in Japan for last 15 consecutive years. The ranking includes more than 900 places throughout Japan. Also Adachi Museum of Art is listed as a three-star site, the best rating, in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. The uniqueness of this museum is the art of the garden. Mr. Adachi created the view of the garden from inside of museum. He thought he can offer different views of beauty in 365 days of a year, so this museum is open every day of a year. Thus, the best way to enjoy this museum is to sit inside of the museum and look the perfectly clopped mounds of the Dry Landscape Garden from a large window. In every season, people can enjoy the beauty the nature offers. Spring with its blooming flowers, summer with its clear, fresh greenery, autumn with its red and yellow leaves brightening the gardens, and winter its pure white snow. After checking into our hotel, we enjoy buffet dinner at the hotel. It offers variety of local cuisine and both Japanese and Western style dishes.

Day 6
Our first stop for today is mystical Izumo Taisha Shrine. Izumo Taisha Shrine is one of the most important shrine in Japan. It is as old as Japanese recoded in history as there are references to Izumo in the Kojiki which is the Japan’s oldest history book dated back in 712. The shrine is dedicated to Okuninushi, worshipped as a god of good fortune and the god of marriage. He is also regarded as a kind and gentle god who has saved a bullied rabbit. Thus, there is statue of Okuninushi and rabbit in the shrine. In Japanese calendar, we call month of October as “ No Gods month” as it is said all the gods in Japan come and hold meetings in Izumo Shrine in the month of October, that no Gods are around anywhere else. This shrine is also known to have the largest rope. It is 13.5 meter long (45 feet) , its diameter is 6 meter (20 feet), and weigh 5 tons. It makes a great photo spot! Next we are headed to Iwami Ginzan ( Silver mine). Iwami Silver Mine was listed as UNESCO world heritage site in 2007. In the early 17th Century, the mine produced as much as 38 tons of silver annually, making it the most important mine in the country at the time when Japan was producing around a third of the world’s silver every year. The Tokugawa shobunate who reside in Tokyo had direct control over 500 or so mines in the area. First, we will visit the world heritage center, and learn about the history of the silver mine by watching short video and see the models. Then we actually hike up to the mine after taking 5 min shuttle bus ride. We have a volunteer guide with us for the hike as the hike involves uphill steps and uneven surface. Walking sticks are provided if interested. After about 45 min of hike, we change into rain boots and wear a helmet with a head light before entering a cave. Inside is dark and has several deep water puddles. After we explored the cave, we take off the boots and a helmet. Then we climb further up for another 15 min to see another historical area. The whole experience takes about 2 and a half hours of hiking but it is worth trying if you are physically comfortable hiking. During lunch break, we have an opportunity to walk around the old town which represents scenery from Edo period. You can find an old court house to a silver shop, cafés, and a German bakery along a river. After spending time in this old historical town of Iwami, we will drive to Hiroshima and have Okonomiyaki, local savory pancake with noodles, for dinner.

Day 7
We take all day to explore the city of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. We start our day visiting The Atomic Bomb Dome. It is what remains of the former Industrial Promotion Hall in Hiroshima prefecture. After the bombing, it was one of the few buildings to remain standing and continues to remain standing today. It was designated as UNESCO world heritage site in 1996. After visiting A-Bomb Dome, we stroll around Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park which is located between the Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is one of the most prominent features of the city. Before the bomb, this area was the political and commercial center of the city. In the park, there is a Children’s peace monument which represent stature of Sadako who lost life from the radiation of atomic bomb. Near the stature, there are several clear boxes which are filled with thousand origami paper cranes donated from all over the world. Each day, one of the boxes is open for collecting paper crane donation. If you are interested, a guide will show you how to fold a paper crane together so that you can donate one for yourself. Every year on the anniversary of the bomb, a ceremony is held at the park. Finally, we visit Peace Memorial Museum that reminds the world of the first atomic bombing. This museum features a variety of exhibits such as belongings left by the victims and photos that portray the horror of the nuclear devastation. Also there are many reading about the nuclear bomb to educate the public to understand and to eliminate nuclear weapons. The museum reminds us of the horrendous tragedy that humanity should never repeat. Then we will continue our day visiting Miyajima Island by taking 10 minuet ferry ride. Miyajima Island is chosen as one of the three most beautiful scenic spots in Japan. In Miyajima, we visit Itsukushima Shrine which stands in the Seto Inland Sea, where gods are believed to reside. It was built by Tairano Kiyomori, a person of power at the end of Heian era (end of 12th century) The vermilion-painted buildings connected by the corridors and its symbolic great torii gate appear as if floating on the sea at high tides. However, you can even walk up to the great torii when it is low tides. Standing in perfect harmony with its natural surroundings, this shrine was registered on the list of UNESCO world heritage in 1996. In Miyajima, there are also some famous temple such as Daishoin bult in 806 by Kukai, or Daiganji near exit of Itsukushima shrine. After a visit to Miyajima Island, we enjoy local lunch. Hiroshima produces 60% of Japanese oysters, so let’s enjoy the taste of fresh oyster. Next, we are going to leave Honshu Island, and travel to Shikoku Island connecting Okayama prefecture in Honshu and Kagawa prefecture in Shikoku. Seto Ohashi Bridge is opened in April in 1988 and used by both cars and trains. The total length is 37.3 Km long, (23 miles) and consisted with 6 bridges.

Day 8
Today, we visit Ritsurin Garden in Kagawa prefecture situated in Seto Inland Sea. This park is one of Kagawa’s most treasured sites as it attracts a great number of both domestic and foreign tourists. It offers traditionally landscaped Japanese garden especially known with delicately sculpted 1,000 pine trees. This garden used to belong to a feudal lord which was completed in 1745, and was opened as a garden in 1875. It features 6 ponds and 13 landscaped hills. It has listed as a three-star site, the best rating, in the Michelin Green Guide Japan in 2009. After spending a beautiful morning, we are headed to Tokushima ferry port to get on 2-hour ferry boat ride to Wakayama prefecture located south of Nara and Osaka. Then we are headed to sacred Mt. Koya. Mt. Koya is a center of Buddhist study and practice. Located in Wakayama prefecture at an elevation of about 900 meter (3,000 feet). Mt. Koya was founded about 1200 years ago by the great Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi ( Kukai) as a center for Shingon Buddhist training. His wish was to establish a monastery deep in the mountains. He wanted it far away from worldly distractions where Buddhist monks could practice and pray for peace and the welfare of the people. Emperor Saga granted his wish and the use of this land in 816. In July 2004, Mt. Koya was registered as a UNESCO world heritage site as a part of the ‘Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, and the Cultural Landscapes that Surround them’. Tonight, we are staying Shukubo ( temple lodging). Temple that provide lodging to guests are known as Shukubo. Originally, these were simple lodging for itinerant monks. The number of these lodging expanded greatly in the Edo period along with the increase in visits by pilgrims. Now there are 117 temples in Mt. Koya, of which 52 provide lodgings. They offer Shojin Ryori, Buddhist vegetarian meals to overnight guests. In Buddhism, the taking of any sentient life is wrong, so only vegetarian meals are taken. Thus Shojin Ryori is entirely vegan, and is based on the concepts of five flavors, five cooking methods and five colors. A meal should include a grilled dish, a deep-fried dish, a pickled dish, a tofu dish and a soup dish. Tonight, we can enjoy simple and pure life away from civilization.

Day 9
Today, we visit Ritsurin Garden in Kagawa prefecture situated in Seto Inland Sea. This park is one of Kagawa’s most treasured sites as it attracts a great number of both domestic and foreign tourists. It offers traditionally landscaped Japanese garden especially known with delicately sculpted 1,000 pine trees. This garden used to belong to a feudal lord which was completed in 1745, and was opened as a garden in 1875. It features 6 ponds and 13 landscaped hills. It has listed as a three-star site, the best rating, in the Michelin Green Guide Japan in 2009. After spending a beautiful morning, we are headed to Tokushima ferry port to get on 2-hour ferry boat ride to Wakayama prefecture located south of Nara and Osaka. Then we are headed to sacred Mt. Koya. Mt. Koya is a center of Buddhist study and practice. Located in Wakayama prefecture at an elevation of about 900 meter (3,000 feet). Mt. Koya was founded about 1200 years ago by the great Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi ( Kukai) as a center for Shingon Buddhist training. His wish was to establish a monastery deep in the mountains. He wanted it far away from worldly distractions where Buddhist monks could practice and pray for peace and the welfare of the people. Emperor Saga granted his wish and the use of this land in 816. In July 2004, Mt. Koya was registered as a UNESCO world heritage site as a part of the ‘Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, and the Cultural Landscapes that Surround them’. Tonight, we are staying Shukubo ( temple lodging). Temple that provide lodging to guests are known as Shukubo. Originally, these were simple lodging for itinerant monks. The number of these lodging expanded greatly in the Edo period along with the increase in visits by pilgrims. Now there are 117 temples in Mt. Koya, of which 52 provide lodgings. They offer Shojin Ryori, Buddhist vegetarian meals to overnight guests. In Buddhism, the taking of any sentient life is wrong, so only vegetarian meals are taken. Thus Shojin Ryori is entirely vegan, and is based on the concepts of five flavors, five cooking methods and five colors. A meal should include a grilled dish, a deep-fried dish, a pickled dish, a tofu dish and a soup dish. Tonight, we can enjoy simple and pure life away from civilization.